PLANNING COMMITTEE AGENDA - Hartlepool Borough Council

Planning Committee – 25 th February 2009 4.1
The design of the building is unique both externally and internally and has been
specifically designed to allow flexibility of use with direct involvement with both staff
and pupils. The buildings north façade and main entrance faces north onto King
Oswy Drive. The north elevation is a simple uninterrupted façade with no
fenestration except for the main entrance which is a recessed north cut in the corner
of the building.
12.12 The south façade links Space to Learn directly to outside areas via floor to
ceiling glazed folding walls. The orientation of the building maximises passive solar
opportunities. Concealed roller shutters will allow the glazed elevation to be
protected over night. An artists impression will be displayed at the meeting.
12.13 As a satellite facility it will be managed on a booking basis where schools will
be able to reserve the space for a day or half day session. It will be flexible enough
to respond to personalised learning needs of schools due to the flexible internal
layout, this will assist in the redevelopment of schools under the Building School for
the Future project and Primary Capital Programme. Within the building is a flexible
system which allows the internal spaces to be altered to suit the functions of that
particular session. It is anticipated that the building will function as an experimental
classroom available to all schools in the Hartlepool area.
12.14 In terms of the effect on the surrounding residential properties the proposed
building is located between the existing two schools. It is considered that the new
facility would not have an adverse affect on the neighbouring residential properties
and surrounding area in general.
12.15 The applicant has undertaken community involvement in the form of 2 public
consultation events and letters sent out to over 600 households in the local area.
Despite the canvassing only 2 members of the public attended and no feedback was
received.
Highways
12.16 Public access into the building is along a dedicated route within the existing
school grounds.
12.17 Space to Learn will accommodate 4 full time support staff who will be
relocated from the present City and Learning Centre at Dyke House School. No
alterations are proposed to the car parking arrangements as it is considered that the
additional staff would utilise existing spaces. The Council’s Traffic and
Transportation Team have no objection to the proposal.
Conclusion
12.18 It is considered that the proposed development is appropriate for the site, and
accords with the policies and proposals contained within the adopted Hartlepool
Local Plan. There is a presumption towards an approval of this application, however
as publicity is outstanding it is recommended that the application be finally delegated
to the Development Control Manager in consultation with the Chair of the Planning
Committee.
4.1 Planning 25.02.09 Pl anning apps 69